Volunteer/Work Trade Opportunities

Our volunteers and work-trade helpers are the lifeline of our conference. Every smile, every tent pitched, and every hand that guides a guest helps to create the sacred flow that defines our community. Whether you're greeting elders, setting up workshop spaces, parking cars, or helping guests to find their way, your service ensures that this event remains the beautiful gift that it is.

We're now recruiting our 2026 team of helpers to assist with all aspects of the Gathering. Applications open 2025 and remain open until August 15, 2026 (or until all positions are filled) for both volunteer and work-trade positions.

We're now recruiting our 2026 team of helpers to assist with all aspects of the Gathering. Applications open for both volunteer and work-trade positions.

Volunteer Pathways

Community Volunteer ( Free Service Pathway)

For those who are called to whole-heartedly be of service.

Commitment: 10 total hours of services ( divided into shifts throughout the weekend)
Perks: Free weekend admission to the Gathering + volunteer Tshirt + meals during the shifts
Eligibility: Complete application and interview process
Note: Missing shifts forfeits free admission

Work - Trade Volunteer ( $75 Contribution)

For those wishing to both serve and support the Gathering's growth.

Contribution: $75 contribution toward the event operations
Payment Deadline: Within 14 days of acceptance ( 72 hours if accepted after Aug 1, 2026)
Commitment: 8 total hours of service throughout the weekend
Perks: Discounted admission + volunteer T -shirt + meals during the shifts
Policy: NO REFUNDS; credit May apply to next year if all hours are completed.

Lodging and Transportation

Volunteers and work-trade participants are responsible for their own transportation and lodging. Complimentary on-site camping is available for those who wish to stay on the land. Please bring your own tent, sleeping bag, and camping gear.

The Gathering takes place outdoors on flat, natural terrain. Come prepared with proper footwear, sun protection, weather-ready clothing and for movement on the land.

Volunteer Roles

Our volunteer/ work-trade team is responsible for numerous jobs that make the conference run smoothly. Tasks are assigned equally and fairly. There are tasks that require flexibility and immediate attention. However, most of our tasks are completed before and after the conference and still leave time for participating in classes and special events during the conference.

Registration & Guest Services
Elder Support Team
Workshop &Teacher Support
Vendor Village Support
Healing Village Support
Grounds & Sustainability Crew
Youth & Family Tent Support
Parking & Traffic Attendants
Security & Safety Team
First Aid & Wellness Tent ( CPR/First Aid Certification Required)
Set- Up/Breakdown Crew

See Full Role Descriptions

Program Details & Expectations:

Set-Up Begins: Thursday, October 1, 2026. Volunteers assigned to set up should plan to arrive early and check in on that day.
Mandatory Check-In: All volunteers must arrive and check in before 9:00 am on Friday, October 2, 2026.
Orientation: Held Friday morning before the gates open at 10 a.m. ( Mandatory for everyone) Any volunteer that arrives after 10:00 am Friday may forfeit their role and will be required to purchase a full conference ticket to remain on-site.
Event Runs: Friday- Sunday, October 2-4, 2026. All shifts are scheduled across the three days. Volunteers are expected to remain available through the closing of the event.
Shift Structure: Community volunteers: 10 total hours ( divided into two or three shifts) Work-Trade Volunteers: 8 total hours ( divided into two shifts) All volunteers will receive a schedule prior to arrival.
Behavior & Accountability: Respect for elders, teachers, guests and fellow volunteers is required at all times. Alcohol, drugs, and disruptive behavior are prohibited during volunteer shifts.

Volunteers who fail to report, miss a scheduled shift, or do not fulfill their duties without communication will:

Forfeit their volunteer or work-trade status.
Be required to pay the full weekend admission rate to remain on-site.
If unable or unwilling to pay, be asked to leave the event grounds out of respect for the community agreement.

These expectations uphold fairness and harmony among all who serve. Dependability, punctuality, and flexibility are essential. We honor task preferences when possible, but All volunteers must be willing to serve where needed. Most shifts involve light to medium lifting and walking; stationary roles are available for those who request them in advance.

Payment & Commitment Policy

Work-trade Volunteers must submit their $75 contribution within 14 days of acceptance. If accepted after August 1, 2026, payment is due within 72 hours.
Payment instructions will be provided via your acceptance email.
Unpaid positions after the deadline will be released to new applicants.
There are no refunds for cancellations; credits may be issued for the following year if all assigned hours were completed.

What You'll Receive:

Bragging rights for being an integral part of the Gullah Geechee Herbal Gathering!
Official volunteer t-shirt/conference swag bag.
Access to conference workshops/ artisan marketplace when off shift.
Meals during assigned shift
Our heartfelt thanks and community recognition.

How to Apply:

Complete the Volunteer Application Form Below ( Opens October 2025)
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis through August 15, 2026.
Accepted applicants will receive a confirmation email and Volunteer Agreement Form
Attend the required virtual orientation ( held August or September 2026)
Arrive on-site Thursday for set up ( if assigned) or check in before 10 am Friday October 2, 2026 for orientation

Questions? Email our Volunteer Coordinator here.